Most U.S. adults do not protect their eyes from UV radiation, report says

Alexandria, VA—Despite the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation to the eyes and vision, 40% of adults in the United States say they do not wear sunglasses while outdoors.

According to a recent report released by the Vision Council, while a majority of adults report using sunglasses for UV protection, far less actually wear them. This is especially true among drivers, where nearly half do not protect their eyes while on the road.

The report revealed a more concerning point in the inconsistent sunglass use among children, who receive three times the annual sun exposure as adults. More than half of parents surveyed reported that they do not protect their children's eyes with sunglasses.

The report also found that UV protection is not a priority among consumers. Just 12% of adults ranked UV protection first as a consideration for a recent sunglass purchase.

"More Americans are acknowledging the need for UV protection, but there is a big disconnect when it comes to our eyes," said Ed Greene, chief executive officer of the Vision Council. "While we may think we are doing a good job with protection, the truth is that we are not doing nearly enough."

Unprotected exposure to the sun presents an increased risk for serious vision problems, like cataracts, abnormal eye growths, cancer of the eye and surrounding skin, and age-related macular degeneration. UV rays harm the eye by penetrating the cornea and damaging the internal structures of the eye. This can lead to serious short- and long-term issues.

For more articles in this issue of Ophthalmology Times eReport, click here.

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